Lewisia

Lewisia is a flowering evergreen semi-succulent suitable for growing in rock gardens, and / or alpine houses.

It grows from 200-250mm (8"-10") high with a similar spread.

The flowers appear from late April to late July, depending subject to where it is grown i.e. indoors or out.

Lewisia cotyledon (red)

Lewisia cotyledon (pink)

Watering:

During the dormant season (October to late February) just keep the plants moist.

Water regularly during the growing season but do not overdo it, too wet conditions can cause root rot.

The succulent leaves will sustain the plants during very hot weather.

Ease off with watering from around week 35 onwards.

Feeding:

A monthly high potash feed should be given during the growing season.

Cultivation

Week 8:

Refrigerate seeds prior to sowing for 10-12 days.

Established plants will have probably turned a lighter shade of green indicating thay growth has recommenced meaning that one can increase the watering regime.

It is also an indicator that plants can be repotted into fresh neutral to acidic gritty open compost.

Week 10:

Sow seeds in trays/ pans and place them in a frost free cold frame.

Prick out the seedlings when they are large enough to handle into 75mm (3") pots of potting compost, grow on in a frost free coldframe until planting out time the following year.

Seeds seldom come true to type, and germination can be quite erratic.

Week 22:

If outdoor conditions allow, plant them in a well-drained sunny position on the rock garden, in rich soil containing plenty of gravel.

The necks of the thick roots are susceptible to winter wet and should be well mulched with a thick layer of chippings for additional drainage.

Alternatively, place them in the alpine house and grow them in 200mm (8") half pots (pans) of equal parts (by volume) rich garden soil and horticultural grit, it is advantageous to place 20-30mm (1") of well-rotted manure at the base of each pot.

Keep them in a well lit area but out of direct sunlight.

Week 26:

Detach offsets and plant them in a mixture of equal parts (by volume) peat and sand in half pots (pans) and place them in a cold frame.